Divalicious Blog

Caturday

2012-01-28T07:01:00.000-05:00

My belly. Let me show it to you.
Rubbings may commence.

The Return of Caturday!

2012-01-21T08:35:00.001-05:00

With little regard to federal mail tampering laws,
Jack decides to eat the USPO property anyway.

I'm a double finalist! Sort of.

2011-11-16T08:50:00.005-05:00

In the last two days I've received notification that both Blood Rights and Dark Kiss of the Reaper have finaled in some kind of readers/reviewers choice contest. Both nominations make me endlessly happy - who wouldn't like knowing that their stories meant that much to someone?

Both contests allow readers to vote, so if you're feeling clicky, here's where to go:

Blood Rights - Goodreads Choice Awards 2011 - just mouse over the cover of Blood Rights and a Vote button will pop up. Then, you know, click it. I think you have to be a member of Goodreads, but I'm not 100% sure. Anyone know?

Dark Kiss of the Reaper - The Romance Reviews - find the Best PNR - Angels and Demons category, then next to Dark Kiss of the Reaper click Vote Now. Again, not sure if you have to be registered, but I don't think so.

Regardless of how these contests come out, I'm just psyched to have two of my books recognized this way. Sure beats cleaning out cat boxes. Which I probably need to go take care of...

Things I Learned At Comic Con

2011-10-19T10:18:00.003-05:00

Last weekend, I went to New York Comic Con, which was also my first con of this type. I did two signings at the Orbit booth and on Saturday, I dressed up as a noble vampire from my series. On Sunday, I was part of an awesome panel with some truly great authors (Patricia Briggs, Alison Goodman, Kim Harrison, Jeaniene Frost, Marjorie M. Liu, Sabrina Benulis and me. You can watch some snippets from that panel here.) It was TONS of fun and a rather educational experience at the same time. Here are a few things I learned that I thought I would share.

1. Costume is a loose term. It could mean body paint and boxer-briefs or a contraption that requires stilts and a minder. It could also mean a headband with ears.

2. If you have issues with large crowds, being unable to move through them and lack of personal space, stay home.

3. Deodorant should be mandatory. It should be whatever is more mandatory than mandatory. And yet, it isn't. I think I now know what a dead body smells like.

4. You will wait in line for everything. Not just to see your favorite artist, author or celeb, but food, bathrooms and transportation.

5. People are really nice, very friendly and for the most part, willing to chat.

6. No matter how much you think you know about popular culture, chances are Comic Con will still make you feel a little dumb.

7. If you're wearing fangs, some men will ask you to bite them.

8. Even if you're not wearing fangs, some men will ask you to bite them.

9. You'll come away worn to the bone tired, but also oddly energized by the general enthusiasm for art, writing and fun.

10. Lastly, bring your own water! $4 for a bottle sucks.

Ultimately, I can't wait to go back. I met some great folks who came to the signings and loved getting to talk to all the readers. What a fun first con!

Getttin' My Geek On

2011-10-14T07:01:00.000-05:00

I'm off to NY Comic Con today and I could not be more excited. Not only will I be signing Blood Rights at the Orbit Booth #939 on Saturday (5pm) and Sunday (11am) but I'll be on an awesome panel Sunday:

PANEL: WE’RE NO ANGELS: Leading Ladies of SF/F
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Location: 1A23

Beware the women of Sci-Fi/Fantasy … and their kick-ass heroines. Kristen Painter joins Patricia Briggs, Alison Goodman, Kim Harrison, Jeaniene Frost, Marjorie M. Liu and Sabrina Benulis.

If you see me on Saturday, you might not recognize me as I'll be in costume as a noble vamp. Yes, I'm cray-cray like that.

Today it begins

2011-09-01T06:51:00.003-05:00

Two important things take place today.

1. My dad's birthday - Happy birthday, Dad!

2. Blood Rights releases in the UK and Australia. If you live in either place and see Blood Rights on a shelf somewhere, I'd love a pic!

Other than that, I'll just be writing away as usual, working my fingers down to nubs on book 4, Out For Blood. How about you?

Free stuff always rocks

2011-08-04T06:32:00.003-05:00

If you're interested in reading Blood Rights and want to try to win a copy, there's a contest on Goodreads you can enter here. With 10 copies of Blood Rights up for grabs, your chances are ten times better!

Of course, you can always just pre-order it, too. ;o)

Hot, hot, hot!

2011-08-02T08:13:00.002-05:00

The fabulous Louisa Edwards' latest release is now available! Check it out!

The blurb:

Welcome to the Rising Star Chef competition, where today’s hottest chefs battle it out on national TV for a chance at fame, fortune and culinary supremacy. Every contestant hungers to win, but only one will take the prize...

HE’S GOT THE SIZZLE

When it comes to competitive cooking, Max Lunden is no stranger to winning...though he’s never been great at working with a team. A master chef—and major hunk—he’s traveled the world, picking up new cooking techniques as well as beautiful women. But when the prodigal chef returns home to his family’s Greenwich Village restaurant, he discovers one too many cooks in the kitchen—and she’s every bit as passionate as he is...

SHE’S GOT THE FIRE

Juliet Cavanaugh used to have a crush on Max when she was just a teenager, hanging out at Lunden & Sons Tavern, hoping to catch a glimpse of the owner’s oldest, and hottest, son. Now a chef herself—competing in the biggest culinary contest in the country—Juliet will be cooking side by side with the one man she’s always admired...and desired. But despite their simmering attraction, Juliet is determined to keep her cool—no matter how hot it gets...

A Whale of a Caturday

2011-07-16T07:30:00.002-05:00

No, it's not a cat at sea. Today's caturday features a video I took on a recent whale watching trip in Gloucester, Massachusetts while on a family vacation there. We've been whale watching in Hawaii, but I never had a camera with me then. Enjoy!

Late Caturday

2011-07-09T12:16:00.002-05:00

Sorry Caturday is late. There was much sleeping to be done.

A few social media tips

2011-07-08T07:57:00.002-05:00

What do fluffy bunny slippers have to do with Facebook and Twitter? Come over to the Fictionistas today and find out!

Catching Up - Part 1

2011-07-06T08:18:00.002-05:00

I feel like I've been away from home for months, but it's only been 9 days. That's like 78 years in cat time according to my boys, who've been demanding massive quantities of attention in an effort to show me what a bad cat mother I am. *ahem*

Actually, after yesterday's airport disaster I wasn't sure I'd even make it home last night, but Hotrod worked his magic and found us another flight before JetBlue even announced our original flight had been canceled. (It pays to be married to a man who's proactive. That is all.)

RWA Nationals is now a blur, but I will say that one of the highlights was getting to spend time with many of the Orbit folks. This only renewed my love for my publisher. Individually, they're all amazing. As a group, I'm surprised they haven't taken over a small country and renamed it Orbitland.

While I dig out from under a towering pile of laundry and head out to restock our fridge, here are a few book-related things worth mentioning:

There's a signed ARC of Blood Rights up for bid in the LA Banks Relief Auction here. Great cause for an amazing author. Check it out!

The cover of Blood Rights has been listed in a Goodreads Best Book Covers of 2011 here. If you like the cover, give it a vote!

A Very Special Caturday!

2011-07-02T05:58:00.002-05:00

Uncle Sam wants you to have a very happy and safe Fourth of July!
He'd also like it if you'd accidentally drop a little barbequed chicken on the ground.

I'm in a New York state of mind!

2011-06-27T05:54:00.002-05:00

I'm off to the 2011 RWA National Conference this morning! For anyone else who's going to be there, I'm going to be randomly tweeting my location and anyone who's interested will be able to find me and get a Blood Rights excerpt book that contains the first two chapters. You can follow me on twitter at http://twitter.com/kristen_painter

Behave while I'm gone! And try to get some writing done, will ya? I'll be doing a little of that while I'm away as well. Carry on!

Caturday!

2011-06-25T07:05:00.000-05:00

Today's Caturday is sponsored by the letter D for determination.

Caturday!

2011-06-18T07:33:00.000-05:00

MOM! HE'S TOUCHING ME!

My brush with death

2011-06-15T07:31:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we finally had some much needed rain. Along with it came some thunder and lightning, but for Florida, that's pretty typical. Once the storm had passed (or I thought it had passed), I decided to head out for my evening walk.

Unlike most nights I walk, there was no one else out - no dogs getting walked, no kids riding bikes, no people out strolling - but hey, it had just stormed, right? I keep going, already deep into thoughts about my story. See, I like to work out the upcoming scenes while I walk. I get a lot of great ideas while I'm out. It's a process that works well for me.

I'm about ten minutes from the house, when all of a sudden, this massive bolt of lightning cracks through the sky so close to me that my scalp goes all tingly. Like I had ants all over me. The thunder that followed it was deafening.

A few seconds later, the rain starts back up.

Stubborn woman that I am, I decide to keep going (I am already 10 mins from the house. Looping around or headed straight back isn't going to make that big a difference.) Another two minutes goes by and a second massive bolt of lightning. The rain is coming down harder now. And I'm starting to rethink the wisdom of this walk.

A third bolt of lightning and I'm contemplating running. Or will that attract the lightning? Should I walk closer to the palms that line the street or farther away from them? Crap.

Suddenly, a black SUV comes barreling down the street toward me and screeches to a stop by the curb. Hotrod had come to my rescue! He saw/heard the first bolt of lightning and thunder and immediately hopped in the car when I didn't come back inside after it happened.

My hero! The moral of this story? When it storms, stay inside and use the treadmill.

Caturday!

2011-06-11T06:54:00.001-05:00

These are not the laundries you're looking for...

The Power of Small Failures

2011-06-10T08:29:00.002-05:00

I'm over at Fictionistas today talking about the power of small failures.

Caturday!

2011-06-04T10:11:00.002-05:00

A rare sighting of parenthetical laser kittens.

Today's the last day!

2011-05-31T07:30:00.001-05:00

The Brenda Novak auction is down to only hours left! That means your chance to snag the awesome stuff up for bid is about to disappear. I've got some a few things in the auction you might be interested in:

A signed ARC of Blood Rights - get the first book in my new gothic urban fantasy series now instead of October 1st when it's released! (100 of these went in about 45 minutes when I signed at BEA. You want this. I promise.) Bid here.

An autographed set of the first three books in the series, Blood Rights, Flesh and Blood and Bad Blood. They'll be signed and shipped to you early fall (as soon as I have my author copies!). Bid here.

Lastly, a one chapter critique of your story by me. If that doesn't scare you, bid here.

This is a great auction that benefits a great cause! Get over there and bid!

Late Caturday

2011-05-28T13:42:00.001-05:00

Due to spending the last few days at BEA, Caturday has been called off in favor of napping.

BEA baby!

2011-05-24T07:22:00.001-05:00

I'm headed to BEA tomorrow and I'm pretty excited about it. I've never been, so just the newness of it will probably be a little overwhelming, but I kinda dig that type of thing too, so no worries.

The best part is I'll be signing copies of BLOOD RIGHTS at the Orbit booth on Thursday from 10 am to 11 am, so if you're going, stop by, say hi and grab a copy!

Have you ever been to BEA? I hope to take some pictures and blog about the experience when I get back. (I'll probably tweet about it while I'm there, too.)

A Very Special Caturday!

2011-05-21T06:35:00.002-05:00

Scooter made himself comfortable while he waited for cake.
(Today's my birthday.)

I've been interviewed about my latest obsession

2011-05-17T08:22:00.002-05:00

Karen Katchur has a blog about writers and fitness and she's interviewed me HERE about my workouts, which just happen to be all about kettlebells lately. Check it out and say hi!

Caturday!

2011-05-14T07:35:00.002-05:00

I had to post this since this is really the only form of writer's block I get.
Except in this house, it's removed with a bowl of chicken.

Caturday!

2011-05-07T06:57:00.003-05:00

Today's Caturday features guest cat, Callie! Callie owns my parents.
And as you can see here, she also owns the bed and blanket.

Want an ARC of Blood Rights?

2011-05-02T06:32:00.000-05:00

Brenda Novak's 2011 Annual Auction for the Cure for Diabetes kicked off yesterday! It's a great cause and there's just tons of awesome stuff up for auction.

I've got a few things up for bid myself:

A signed ARC of Blood Rights - get the first book in my new gothic urban fantasy series now instead of October 1st when it's released! Bid here.

An autographed set of the first three books in the series, Blood Rights, Flesh and Blood and Bad Blood. They'll be shipped to you early fall (as soon as I have my author copies!). Bid here.

A one chapter critique of your work by me! Bid here.

Caturday!

2011-04-30T06:15:00.002-05:00

If someone could just turn on the TV, Scooter's caturday would be complete.

"You look stunning, babe."

2011-04-29T07:50:00.002-05:00

I'm over at Fictionistas today with a few comments on today's Royal Wedding!

Look what's out today!

2011-04-26T06:54:00.000-05:00

Roxanne St. Claire's FACE OF DANGER releases today!

*Amazon buy link*

Blurb:

Private investigator Vivi Angelino loves living life on the edge, but stepping into the shoes of a movie starlet to bait a serial killer isn't just a thrill . . . it's a ticket to the big time for her fledgling security firm. That is, as long as a certain risk-averse FBI agent stays out of her way-and out of her fantasies.

Assistant Special Agent in Charge Colton Lang isn't above using his well-worn rulebook to stop Vivi's latest walk on the wild side. But when they learn her client is involved in something far more insidious than bad acting, Vivi and Colt must work together despite the electrifying attraction arcing between them. For each new clue is bringing them closer to a high-profile crime with a dark and deadly truth at its core . . . and a cold, calculating murderer with nothing left to lose.

Have you read the rest of the Guardian Angelinos series?

Caturday!

2011-04-23T07:11:00.000-05:00

Waiting for the cheeseburger delivery truck.

Engage your brain and answer this

2011-04-20T07:38:00.002-05:00

Here's a little something to get your brain working:

Let's say you have something of great value you need to hide in your house. And let's say that the valuable thing is something small - a few rare gold coins, a small bag of diamonds, a flash drive with secret documents, a clutch of forged papers - you get the idea. Where do you put it? What's the least liking place for someone to look for it? Can you come up with a place that's also easily accessible, should you need to grab your treasure and run?

Go!

What's new with you?

2011-04-18T06:33:00.004-05:00

And just like that, it's Monday again. I don't hate Monday like a lot of people - I actually see it as a clean slate. A fresh start to a new week filled with potential. (That feeling usually disappears long before Wednesday, but hey, at least my week starts out well.)

Not much new to report except my Facebook fan page has a brand new look! If you haven't seen it yet, you can check it out here. (Feel free to hit the "like" button while you're there.) What do you think? There's an exclusive excerpt available on that page as well.

Now, what's new with you?

Caturday!

2011-04-16T08:11:00.001-05:00

Lounging. Yer doin it right.

A Mini Writing Lesson

2011-04-15T08:13:00.002-05:00

I'm over at Fictionistas today talking about Deep POV. Come on and over and throw your two cents in.

Drum roll please...

2011-04-11T06:11:00.004-05:00

In case you haven't seen it yet, here is, at long last, the cover for BLOOD RIGHTS:

You can see some sneak peeks of the next two covers here. Didn't the gang at Orbit do an amazing job? I'm beyond thrilled!

A super cool Caturday!

2011-04-09T08:32:00.002-05:00

A writer friend of mine, Marley Gibson, has created this awesome video and entered her kitties in a contest to become the next Purina Cat Chow correspondents. Check it out:

Happy Caturday!

RT here I come!

2011-04-04T08:24:00.002-05:00

I'm off to the Romantic Times Convention tomorrow! If you're going, be sure to say hi. You can also catch me on these panels:

Wednesday, April 6th:

BUSINESS: Plotting Your Career
Time: 03:30 pm - 04:30 pm

Thursday, April 7th:

E-BOOK: Wooing the Masses
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am

STEAMPUNK: Where Does He Get Those Wonderful Toys?: Gadgets, Gizmos and Automatons
Time: 02:45 pm - 03:45 pm

I'm also going to be part of Steampunk fashion show on Friday. Lots of fun!

Caturday!

2011-04-02T06:40:00.002-05:00

Bereft at finding he did not sparkle in the sun, Vampire Jack collapsed, unable to go on.

Big News!

2011-04-01T06:54:00.001-05:00

I'm announcing some big news over at the Fictionistas today! You don't want to miss it!

Are you feeling cold?

2011-03-29T07:10:00.003-05:00

Or was that a Shiver Of Fear? (See what I did there?) Roxanne St. Claire's latest romantic suspense hits the shelves today!

Blurb:

The legacy that haunts her . . .

The mystery she must solve . . .

A man who threatens to reveal her secrets . . .

and break her heart.

Burned by a failed marriage, former FBI agent Marc Rossi wants back in the investigation game with no emotional strings attached. Taking an assignment for his enterprising Angelino cousins, he heads to Northern Ireland to pry a key piece of evidence from a missing socialite-any way he can. But when the ice queen turns out to be warm, beautiful, and on a secret mission of her own, the job becomes a passionate reminder of what happens when duty and desire mix. The daughter of an infamous fugitive, Devyn Sterling has survived betrayal only to find that her mother has mysteriously disappeared. When her search uncovers secrets, lies, and threats, Devyn and Marc must trust each other when every instinct says they can't . . . and a terrorist wants to make sure they won't live to try.

Get your copy today!

WANT!

2011-03-28T08:42:00.002-05:00

I know Petite Lap Giraffes are not real. That does not stop me from wanting one. Or watching their live cam.

Addiction, I has it. Seriously, what's the legal limit for cuteness? Because I think the PLG's have crossed it.

I really need one of these. Really. I'm sure it would not only entertain me, but somehow make me a better writer.

Caturday!

2011-03-26T07:50:00.000-05:00

If my editor is reading this, my book is going to be a little late...

I'm rooting for you!

2011-03-25T06:35:00.003-05:00

For all those of you sitting by your phone today, waiting on the edge of your seat for the call that will tell you you've finaled in either the Golden Heart or the RITA, I'm rooting for you.

I've been there (2 x GH finalist) and I know how you feel! Now, good luck and let the games begin!

You can keep track of the finalists as the notifications come in here.

Dark Kiss Of The Reaper

2011-03-23T07:44:00.002-05:00

I have a new book out today! Dark Kiss of the Reaper is a dark paranormal romance. Here's the 411:

Blurb:

The Angel of Death has a name: Azrael. He also has a purpose - to soothe the souls of the suffering into the peaceful passage of the afterlife. But in his twilight existence, Azrael himself has never known peace or pleasure...

Until he meets Sara, the first mortal who can somehow see him in his Reaper form. Charming and spirited despite bearing her own burdens, she intoxicates him with the pleasures of life, even taming his brutal dark side with her fearlessness. But Azrael’s new happiness is short-lived when he realizes Sara’s health is fading. The bright flame of her life is about to be blown out.

And he’s to blame.

Where to buy:
Amazon
Barnes&Noble
Smashwords

I hope y'all like it! Isn't the cover gorgeous? (Mad thanks to Kim Killion for that!) If you check it out, let me know what you think!

Looking for a fun read?

2011-03-22T08:11:00.004-05:00

I just finished Kristan Higgins latest, My One and Only. I've been a fan of her work since I started reading her a few years ago - the quirky characters, the ever-present pet, the bumbling ex, the family members in need, the small town that becomes a character itself - I know what I'm getting when I pick up one of her books, but she always manages to reinvent her standards in a new and interesting way.

My One and Only is no exception and probably the freshest of her books that I've read (and I've read them all.) Without fail, she writes a book that will entertain. I could see where this one might even make you cry. (It didn't me, but then I have a heart made of titanium.)

If I were the ratings type, I'd give this a five out of five. If you're looking for a fun contemporary read or have a thing for reunion stories, give this one a try.

Next up: Maria Geraci's The Boyfriend of the Month Club - already started it and loving it!

The Coolness!

2011-03-21T07:12:00.000-05:00

Some days in your life are just officially cooler than others. Today is one of those days. Why, you ask? (And I'm so glad you did.) Because I discovered something over the weekend.

My gothic urban fantasy series? The one that's coming out from Orbit this fall? It's now officially available for pre-order on Amazon and Barnes&Noble. B&N only has the first book listed, but I'm sure the others will be along shortly.

Here they are, if you want to, you know, pre-order them. *winkwink*

Amazon:
Blood Rights
Flesh And Blood
Bad Blood

Barnes&Noble:
Blood Rights

No, the covers aren't available yet. I really, really wish I could share the first cover with you, but I can't yet. I promise, it's like nothing you've seen before. As soon as I can, I'll show it to you. Until then, trust me when I say it's worth the wait.

Caturday!

2011-03-19T08:01:00.001-05:00

Today's caturday will be spent working.
And by working, we mean laying around the house, basking in the sun and napping.
It's in our contract.

I'm chicken

2011-03-18T07:50:00.003-05:00

I'm over at Fictionistas today, asking for help making a decision. Come give your input!

Win an Ereader!

2011-03-16T07:16:00.000-05:00

Camryn Rhys and Rebecca Lynn are running a contest in keeping with all the March Madness going on - it's an author bracket! And guess who has two books in the running? If you said me, you'd be right. You did say me, didn't you?

Check it out here , read the details and get yourself entered! By entered, I mean you've picked Miss Bramble And The Leviathan and The Perfect Dish to win.

AND if either of my books wins the whole shooting match, I'll give a ecopy of BOTH books to the contest winner!

Great Giveaway

2011-03-15T09:33:00.003-05:00

We've got an awesome giveaway going on over the Romance Divas blog today - if you love books and flowers, head over HERE and leave a comment to enter yourself in the giveaway. You could win a copy of Faking It by Elisa Lorello AND a dozen roses! Isn't that cool? I love having fresh flowers in the house and I love free books. I'm sure I'm not alone in that. ;o)

Check it out!

You better THINK!

2011-03-14T06:42:00.003-05:00

Too many people believe that the internet is a place where you can say whatever you want, regardless of how cruel or untrue it might be. Flame wars break out on a daily basis. Rumors get scooped up and spread like gospel. Individuals are vilified before facts are verified. As an author, we're public figures. Sure, not to the extent of actors or politicians maybe, but we're still out there.

The next time I start to post something that's more than just a daily observation on life or an update on the mad behaviors of my feline staff, I'm going to run the content through this checklist:

T - Truthful
H - Helpful
I - Inspiring
N - Necessary
K - Kind

Can you imagine how much nicer the world in general would be if everyone decided to THINK before they spoke?

Caturday!

2011-03-12T09:15:00.002-05:00

Scary bedtime stories. Not always as fun as they sound.

Yep, That's My Book

2011-03-10T09:24:00.003-05:00

I recently found out that The Perfect Dish was nominated for Best in Paranormal Romance for 2010 at The Romance Reviews which is pretty cool considering this is one of my self-published books.

Here's the thing - I could use some votes now. I hate to ask, but not as much as I'd hate not getting any votes, know what I mean?

So if you're inclined to help me out, go HERE, then scroll down to the Paranormal Romance category and vote for The Perfect Dish. Yes, you have to register which is a pain in the butt, but it's a simple process AND I'd do it for you. And probably have. Just saying.

Go vote. Please?

Also, if you've never read The Perfect Dish, you can get your own copy via the sidelinks there --->

Learning to Bounce

2011-03-07T08:20:00.006-05:00

The late cowboy star, Gene Autry, said life isn't about how high you climb, but how well you bounce.

For the business of writing, truer words could not be spoken. A writer's life is often a roller coaster ride of ups and downs. You final in a contest, then get your results back to find the one judge who kept you from winning hated your heroine. You get a call from an editor who asks you to do revisions, only to have them ultimately pass on the work. You sell your first book, but can't get a contract on a second no matter what you propose. Readers love your new series, then your publisher cancels it.

This is the writing life. We rise and fall every day, probably more so now with the uncertainty of the industry and the ever-changing publishing landscape than ever before. Many authors I know are having to re-invent themselves or seek new ways of publishing their work.

They're learning to bounce. Because the writer who falls and doesn't get back up is the writer who will get left behind, who will disappear, whose career will be over.

So no matter where you are in your path, learn to be resilient. Don't let one person's opinion keep you down.

Get out there and bounce.

Caturday!

2011-03-05T08:19:00.000-05:00

It's all about the cute.

I want your input!

2011-03-04T08:29:00.003-05:00

I'm over at the Fictionistas today asking what makes you a reader. Come on over and chime in! I'd love to see if there's a common thread.

Caturday!

2011-02-26T08:06:00.000-05:00

Some days, you just shouldn't get outa bed.

Swamped!

2011-02-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

I have so much going on right now - family visting, I'm getting over a wicked cold, tons of writing work...there seems to be no end. Not that I'm complaining about the family and work. I love both of those. The cold I could do without.

What I would really like? A long, lazy afternoon poolside. Warm sun, the soft shush of water, a sweet summer breeze. Right now that seems like it would be as good as a week's vacation.

How would you spend an afternoon of down time?

Caturday!

2011-02-19T08:15:00.001-05:00

Practicing for Idol.

The Perfect Dish is a Top Pick!

2011-02-16T07:11:00.000-05:00

The Romance Reviews has listed THE PERFECT DISH as a Top Pick this month, giving it a lovely five star review! How cool is that?

In other news, I'm hard at work. On something new. You'll see soon enough.

What are you working on?

Valentine's Day, Schmalentine's Day

2011-02-14T07:28:00.000-05:00

IT'S HOTROD'S BIRTHDAY!

Happy birthday to the wonderful man I married.
You are THE best husband a girl could ask for. I love you!

Caturday!

2011-02-12T07:25:00.000-05:00

Dood. Playing dead is no excuse for hogging the loveseat.

Pancakes

2011-02-10T09:09:00.002-05:00

Pancakes, flapjacks, griddlecakes, whatever you call them, they're yummy. And when it comes to breakfast, I think about pancakes a lot, but they're not my "go to" breakfast food. They're delicious and yet somehow wrong. As in, the deliciousness is tempered by how not healthy they are. Does that make sense? If pancakes were full of vitamins and minerals and cancer fighting properties, I'd eat them every day. But alas, they're not.

So I thought, maybe somebody out there in blog land has a healthy pancake recipe. It could happen, right? Hence this post. If you have a delicious, healthy pancake recipe, lay it on me.

The syrup is waiting.

I blame Louisa

2011-02-07T08:10:00.003-05:00

All of a sudden, I have a craving for cowboy boots. These cowboy boots. Here's a little secret about me - I don't just love sparkly things, I also love embroidery like this. These boots speak to me for some reason. It's not like they make me want to run out and buy a horse, but they're just so pretty.

I want them. How cute would they be with just jeans and a t-shirt? Or a sundress? I've been looking at them for days. I know they're not that practical for Florida, but then, practical isn't usually a factor I consider. Also, if I ever get out to Durango again...perfection!

Should I?

PS. Louisa Edwards is to blame for me wanting these boots. She knows why.

Caturday!

2011-02-05T08:47:00.000-05:00

Some of us work in my office. Some of us don't.

Places I'm going to be

2011-02-04T08:25:00.000-05:00

Because the first three books in my gothic urban fantasy series are releasing from Orbit this year (Sept, Oct and Nov), I'm going to be doing a lot of traveling to various author/reader/writer events.

So far this year I'll be at the Romantic Times Convention, RWA Nationals, and the Authors After Dark Convention. I know that doesn't sound like a lot, but there are a few more things in the works.

Are you headed to any of those? Which ones?

I woke up hungry

2011-02-01T09:42:00.002-05:00

I woke up hungry and thinking about food, a sure sign that while my head knows it's time to get back on the diet, my body is rebelling.

I'll be honest and tell you that my appetite is frighteningly large. My capacity for food outdoes some men. I fight it, but it's always there.

But I've eaten like a death row prisoner having their last meal for long enough. Today I must return to eating healthy and getting some exercise. (Not to rub it in for those of you in other parts of the country, but the weather here is gorgeous and I plan to head out for a spin on my new bike later.)

With that in mind, I'm off to the store to fill my fridge with fruits and veggies. Conference season is fast approaching and besides being healthy, I'd like to fit into my clothes.

Are you dieting? Exercising? What approach are you using?

Oops, I did it again

2011-01-31T08:29:00.003-05:00

I missed Caturday. In my defense, I was at a writer's conference giving a workshop on worldbuilding, so I kind of have a good excuse. As an apology, I offer this picture of quiet reflection to start your Monday:
If it's anything like my Monday's going to be, this is the only quiet reflection you're going to get...

Doh! I missed Caturday! This should make up...

2011-01-24T08:06:00.003-05:00

Our youngest, Finnegan, thinks that tumbling will open closed doors. Not sure why. This goes on repeatedly without working, but he still keeps at it...

Happy Monday!

I've been quoted

2011-01-18T08:13:00.002-05:00

For real. Check it out here. Read the whole thing. You won't be sorry.

Sometimes I'm surprised people even listen to me. Maybe I should talk more.

Monday To Do's

2011-01-17T09:06:00.003-05:00

I have a lot to do this week, so this week isn't that much different than any other week, but it feels more oppressive.

Some of my To Do's include:

1. Laundry (this is a permanent fixture on my to do list.)
2. Getting my hair done (if roots were a crime, I'd be calling you for bail.)
3. Copy edits
4. Putting the final touches on my Worldbuilding Workshop (I'll be giving this twice in the next two weeks, so it better be good. I hope.)
5. Getting my Etsy jewelry shop stocked and reopened for business. (My itch to make jewelry is strong and I have some FABULOUS raw materials to work with, so this is more like a reward than a to do.)

What's on your list this week?

Caturday!

2011-01-15T13:08:00.000-05:00

Dinner will be a little late this evening.

It's been a year since I blogged

2011-01-11T19:17:00.000-05:00

Not counting Caturday, of course. Mostly it's been because I've been working, but there have been a host of other things going on in my life these past few months. Stuff that has made my time precious.

Now that we've begun a new year and life has calmed somewhat, I really want to get back to blogging. I enjoy it. I really do. So, this is a start of sorts.

What's new with me? I got a bike for Christmas. No, I'm not 12, but I didn't have one and now I do. Hotrod got one too, so now we go out for rides together. Of course his bike is black and yellow and looks like a transformer. Mine is purple and has a basket large enough to hold several kittens. Not that I've put kittens in there. (Thinking about something and doing it are two very different things.)

In other book-related news, I should have covers for my Orbit books to share soon. I hope. I want to see them desperately.

My plate is still full writing-wise. There is always something to work on, isn't there? Anyway, what's new with you? Fill me in on all I've missed.

Caturday!

2011-01-08T08:03:00.000-05:00

Jack wonders if real vampires have this much trouble keeping their coffins closed.

A New Year's Caturday!

2011-01-01T11:48:00.001-05:00

Here's wishing all your dreams come true in 2011. Happy New Year! Now, let's nap.

Christmas Eve Traditions

2010-12-24T08:46:00.002-05:00

I'm over at Fictionistas today talking about Christmas Eve traditions. Come share yours!

Hungry for romance?

2010-12-20T07:45:00.001-05:00

Guess what's now on sale? That's right, The Perfect Dish, my latest contemporary paranormal romance!

Texas-born Kelly Spicer is not just one of Manhattan's hottest young chefs, he's also one of the city's most eligible bachelors. Desperate to help his grieving sister, Kelly uses the magic cookbook passed down through his family's generations to conjure up a recipe of chocolate-laced persuasion to enlist the aid of the only woman he thinks can reach his sister.

Psychologist Meredith Black has buried two husbands, an experience which has made her an expert in grief and pushed her to pen two books that landed her on the Oprah show and the best seller list. A cynic in matters of the heart, her success does nothing to ease her belief that she's a jinx. She vows never to love again and when she makes that sentiment public, dating Kelly becomes her best damage control.

For $2.99, you can grab a copy for your Kindle or Nook or find any other format at Smashwords. Or give it as a gift to anyone who might enjoy a sexy chef hero...

I hope you enjoy it!

A Christmas Caturday warning!

2010-12-18T07:50:00.000-05:00

WARNING!

This year's batch of Christmas trees may be infected with a particularly silly species of gremlin - Caticus climbicus. Signs to watch for include the tree shaking when no one is touching it, strange branch rustling and ornaments being mysteriously dislodged. If you think you have a gremlin, try placing a handful of treats a few feet from the tree, then sit back and watch.

Should a gremlin appear, approach with caution. Sap in their fur can make them cranky!

Sugarcat

2010-12-10T09:38:00.002-05:00

I'm over at Fictionistas today talking about a new development in my life.

Happy Anniversary, Hotrod!

2010-12-07T09:40:00.002-05:00

Eight years ago today (yes, on Pearl Harbor Day) Hotrod and I said our vows. It was a lovely day filled with friends and family and promises.

I love you, Hotrod. You're the best husband a girl could hope for.

Caturday!

2010-12-04T09:57:00.001-05:00

My parent's cat, Callie. As you can see, tails do not, apparently, get cold.

Caturday!

2010-11-27T07:34:00.000-05:00

Go away. Sleepin' off da turkeys.

Do you or don't you?

2010-11-26T07:54:00.002-05:00

I'm over at the Fictionistas today talking Black Friday. Come on over and share your opinion!

Caturday!

2010-11-20T08:20:00.000-05:00

An ottoman built for two.

Caturday!

2010-11-13T11:19:00.002-05:00

Cheeseburger delivery truck look out. Day 1191. Still no sign.

Now where did I put that...

2010-11-12T07:53:00.002-05:00

I'm over at Fictionistas today talking about organization. Or my lack thereof. Stop by and tell me how you do it!

Toot! Toot!

2010-11-10T08:01:00.002-05:00

Yes, that's me, tooting my own horn. Miss Bramble And The Leviathan got a great review yesterday so of course, I'm sharing! You can check out the review here. Fab, huh? Have you read it yet? You really, really should. Even my cats think you should, and they're never wrong.

Monday Update

2010-11-08T08:27:00.003-05:00

Ever have that feeling like you have so much to do you don't know where to start? That's me. So instead of telling you the multitude of things on my To Do list, I'd rather hear what you've been up to. Have a book out? Participating in Nanowrimo (or whatever that's called)? Under deadline? Got an agent? Fill me in on what's happening in your world.

A Caturday Halloween!

2010-10-30T08:46:00.000-05:00

Scooter works his double-stuff oreo costume to the fullest.

Monday News and Announcements

2010-10-25T15:04:00.001-05:00

Here's what's new and interesting in my world:

* RT Book Reviews gave Miss Bramble and the Leviathan 4 1/2 stars! You can read the fabulous review here.

* Bad Blood, book 3 in my new gothic urban fantasy series for Orbit Books, is done and out with my beta readers.

* Speaking of those Orbit Books, cover art is underway for that series (out next year) - and can I just say, prepare to be wowed. It's going to be unlike anything you've seen on an urban fantasy before. Awesome!

* Speaking of covers, the next book I'll be releasing on Kindle/PubIt/Smashwords is The Perfect Dish. I plan to release it early December. Here's the fabulous cover, done by the talented Kim Killion:

What's new in your world?

Caturday!

2010-10-23T06:49:00.000-05:00

What Sam thinks of a weekend filled with chores.

The Lists of Steampunk

2010-10-21T09:29:00.000-05:00

Release week fun continues...

Ever wondered if you were "steampunk" or not? I've compiled a few fun and handy lists to help you figure it out. Stop by the Steamed blog and check out my guest post. Leave a comment and you could win a copy of Miss Bramble And The Leviathan!

Release Day!!!

2010-10-19T05:57:00.003-05:00

Miss Bramble And The Leviathan is officially on sale!!! You can get your copy here. Buy one for yourself and one for a friend! Nothing says I care like steampunk. ;o)

If you like a chance to win a copy, stop by Meljean Brooks blog today and leave a comment.

Here's the book's blurb:

The last thing she planned to steal was his heart.

The Company. Military institution, protector of Praeton and the nation of Grand Isle. Dirty rotten thief.

When Pandora Bramble steps aboard the Company’s premiere airship Daedalus it’s not for the exclusive VIP tour. It’s to secure proof that the Company stole the regulator valve her father designed—even if it means tearing the engine apart. Foiled by the unexpected appearance of a handsome crew member, she despairs of ever getting another chance—until he kisses her.

Captain Theolonius Hatch, sentenced to engine room duty for refusing to take part in the Company’s fleet week activities, never dreamed a woman like Pandora existed. Her brains match her beauty, a combination that adds up to more trouble than he ever expected.

As Pandora allows Theolonius to sweep her into a whirlwind courtship, her wildest dreams come true. As do her greatest fears, leaving her to decide what matters most. Loyalty…or love.

The clock is ticking.

Warning: This book contains airships, mechanical owls, women who are good with tools, men in and out of uniform, steam generated by engines and people, and some hot carriage scenes.

Now go forth and purchase!

Tomorrow's the day, but today's still Monday

2010-10-18T07:47:00.002-05:00

My steampunk romance, Miss Bramble And The Leviathan, comes out tomorrow from Samhain, which is very exciting, but that's tomorrow.

Today is all about work. Layering. Polishing. Tweaking. Revising. You know how it goes. Also, laundry. Ick.

What's on your plate today?

Caturday!

2010-10-16T07:53:00.001-05:00

Snuggling: ur doin it rite.

The end is near

2010-10-15T06:27:00.003-05:00

Come see what I'm talking about over at the Fictionistas today!

Caturday!

2010-10-09T08:20:00.002-05:00

Little known cat super power: reading by osmosis

Nookalicious!

2010-10-06T08:16:00.001-05:00

Heart Of Fire is now available for the Nook!

Check it out here. And ya know, feel free to snap up a copy or two. *wink wink*

Besides that, let's see what else is new...

I'm under deadline. Nope, not new.

My steampunk romance comes out from Samhain on the 19th. That's kinda new.

What's new with you?